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Highlights
- SOL share price sees a 6.1% decline in 2025
- QBE surges 33.5% above its 52-week low
- SOL maintains a strong dividend track record since 1903
The stock market in 2025 has presented investors with a mix of opportunities and challenges, and two companies—Washington H. Soul Pattinson & Company Ltd (ASX:SOL) and QBE Insurance Group Ltd (ASX:QBE)—have been particularly notable. SOL shares have experienced a 6.1% dip since the start of the year, while QBE has risen 33.5% above its 52-week low. Here’s a deeper look at their performance and what it means for the market.
SOL’s Diversified Holdings and Market Presence
Washington H. Soul Pattinson (SOL) is a well-established diversified investment company, holding stakes in multiple industries and asset classes. Some of its largest investments include TPG Telecom (ASX:TPG), New Hope Group (ASX:NHC), and a cross-shareholding in Brickworks (ASX:BKW).
As one of the oldest publicly listed companies on the ASX, SOL has maintained a consistent track record of delivering returns. One of its key strengths lies in its approach to capital growth and dividend distribution. Impressively, since listing in 1903, SOL has never missed a dividend payment. This reliability has cemented its reputation as a family-run investment company with directors who are financially aligned with shareholders.
QBE’s Expanding Global Footprint
QBE Insurance Group (QBE) has evolved from its roots as a marine insurer in Townsville to become one of Australia’s largest insurance companies. With operations spanning 27 countries, the company offers coverage across commercial, consumer, reinsurance, and agricultural sectors.
Despite its Australian origins, QBE now derives only about 30% of its revenue domestically, with another 30% coming from the United States and the remainder largely from Europe. This global diversification has played a role in its recent stock performance, with the share price climbing significantly in 2025.
SOL & QBE: A Look at Dividend Valuation
One method to gauge SOL’s market standing is by analyzing its dividend yield over time. Currently, SOL shares offer a dividend yield of 2.96%, compared to a five-year average of 2.44%. While this suggests an increase in cash flow to shareholders, it can also be influenced by other factors, such as share price movement. In SOL’s case, the annual report indicates that dividends have been growing, with last year’s payout exceeding the three-year average.
Both SOL and QBE present interesting dynamics in 2025—one with a strong dividend track record and another demonstrating resilience in the insurance sector.
